Jimmy Dyehouse Science Hill School
Kyle Lively Somerset Independent Schools
Patrick Richardson Pulaski County Schools
By Christopher Harris
It ’ s that time of year again . Time to go back to school .
As such , it ’ s a perfect time to see where local schools are in terms of their progress , their challenges , and their achievements .
Below are the responses from a shared interview between the superintendents of the three local public school systems : Jimmy Dyehouse of Science Hill School , the single-facility district in the northern part of the county , Kyle Lively of Somerset Independent Schools , the city school district , and Patrick Richardson of Pulaski County Schools , the largest district in the area , with two high schools and elementary schools in all corners of the county .
The superintendents address a number of timely topics , talk about what their schools bring to the educational table , and hopefully will help parents know more about what ’ s going on in their child ’ s place of learning .
1 . What encourages you about your school district going into the 2023- 24 school year ?
Jimmy Dyehouse ( JD ): We are growing ! Our numbers keep increasing and we have been approved to add on to our building . We are looking to add on four new classrooms and a set of restrooms to the north end of our building in addition to replacing our roof . All these things are possible because our enrollment has drastically increased in the last two years since ( Kentucky House Bill ) 563 .
Kyle Lively ( KL ): The start of each new school year always brings about anticipation and excitement . Our district has some of the best students and employees in the Commonwealth . Having caring and hardworking individuals dedicated to student success is always encouraging . The Somerset Independent School District is a very special place and it ’ s an honor to be part of an institution with such a rich tradition of excellence in every aspect .
Patrick Richardson ( PR ): The thing that encourages me the most about the start this school year is the same thing that has encouraged me to start every school year since 1994 . It ’ s the students , and we have the best students in the world in Pulaski County . They are our future and they are so special each in their own way . It encourages me to come to work everyday knowing we have the greatest staff striving everyday to meet the needs and serve our students . It also encourages me to know that we have a supportive community and we are so blessed to work with our parents and community partners . Those are the things that encourage me every day !
2 . What are the biggest challenges facing educational leaders in schools today ?
JD : Many schools are dealing with teacher shortages and the fallout that comes from that . Under-trained teachers and overcrowded classrooms are major obstacles for schools today . I ’ m thankful that Science Hill continues to be home to some amazing educators
August 2023 SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky • 7